"The risk to public health in England from hepatitis E infection is low, it is usually a mild, self-limiting illness which most people will clear without any symptoms.

"Most of the cases involved the G3-2 hepatitis E strain, which has not been found in UK pigs, and the appearance of this strain is likely to reflect complex animal health practices within Europe, rather than any processes used by the retailer.

"PHE understands all sausages sold under the Tesco brand are exclusively sourced within the UK.

"The Food Standards Agency is working with government, industry bodies and scientists across Europe to better understand and address the risk of foodborne hepatitis E infection."

Researchers tracked 60 infected people — but estimated that between 150,000 to 200,000 Brits a year are infected by the imported pork.